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WAYPOINTS! GPS NEWS - AUGUST 2009
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GPS TRACKING
No, a receiver won't locate you, unless...

A GPS unit won't locate you, unless it also transmits your location. About 90% of our GPS devices only receive satellite signals. All of our hiking, auto navigators put you on a digital map, period, so you - and not other people - know where you or your wheels are. Now, the 10% of GPS of units/ trackers that can receive + transmit locations are what this article is about!

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Business Use

Tracking vehicles is an advantage for many reasons. If you're self-employed, logging onto your vehicle's tracks with an easy-to-use interface on your computer, can eliminate the tedious daily logs. It's useful for truckers, as well as partial vehicle expenses for tax purposes. Fleet owners do attest to reduced fuel expenses and other benefits. New: GPS Central's XIRGO Vehicle Tracker!

Delivery drivers, couriers, and truck transport professionals use stand-alone receivers too, for directions and fuel/time savings. We recommend Garmin products for routing features, map accuracy/detail for commercial transport, where truck routes are not required. (Units with truck routes: PC*Miler, Garmin.)

Family Safety

By setting up parameters or having the ability to review a vehicle's speeds, parents are able to supervise new driver habits from home. It can hone young drivers' awareness and road skills, in addition to specifying the location of the parked vehicle. One parent used an older Otto in the day, which alerted his learners-license drivers to playground zones, school zones and all speed limits in other areas.

Vehicle Security

Some products alert the vehicle owner when the car is moved, a door is opened etc. If the car is stolen, its location can be accessed by the owner from any location with internet access.

Remote Safety

There are products, like SPOT, or Iridium and GlobalStar GPS-1700 satellite phones, that receive satellite signals AND permit transmission of user data, e.g. last known locations or evacuation request.

Cell Phones

Do you know that your cell phone transmits your location whether it's on or off? It's a new 911 feature. Well, sort of new, that is, in this decade. Your location is accessible to authorities, should you be missing in a disaster or accident. However, the phone's battery cannot be removed for successful tracking, and it must be within range of cell towers for reception.

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